In this book, we are introduced to the adorable creation that is Barnabus, a half mouse and half elephant creation that has been labelled a Failed Project. He lives deep in an underground lab with all his friends who are also Failed Projects. But they dream of the world above them. The book follows their adventures as they dare to break free and find a place in the world, imperfections and all. The illustrations are very nice and they go very well with the narration. It is really a nice book for kids. One thing that I wish is that there could be a bit more text and depth story just because of the topics that this book focuses on. I would had liked if the main themes would have been explored a little more. Barnabus lives in a lab under the Perfect Pets store with the other Failed Projects. He's happy but longs for a life outside his glass jar. When the Green Rubber Suits plan to "recycle" Barnabus and his friends into genetically perfect pets, the animals decide to run for it. During the chase, Barnabus is forced to choose between perfection and freedom. The pictures in this book are magical, and the story emphasizes the importance of following your dreams, trusting your friends, and realizing that you don't have to be perfect to be happy.

The Fan brothers' second picture book, Ocean Meets Sky, centers on the magical spot between sky and sea. The artwork is beyond words. I fell in love with each character, their uniqueness. The storyline, strong. The ending a shade darker. This book is a happily ever after based more in reality than an over the rainbow. A dreamy story of caretaking and letting go in the surreally gorgeous picture book Lizzy and the Cloud. This subtle, whimsical reflection on the caretaker relationship provides many openings for discussing growth and letting go.” — Shelf Awareness for Readers. Therefore Pip makes the decision to escape his jar and take his friends with him so that they are not recycled either. When you look at all the different little pet creatures, you can clearly see that the talented Fan brothers dispose about a lot of creativity and imagination.When he and his imperfect friends decide to make a break for freedom, you’ll root for them every step of the way.”— Evanston Public Library

Here is The Barnabus Project being illustrated by the Fan Brothers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=js1R2... The Barnabus Project is the most curious, imaginative tale, beautifully illustrated with mysterious underground labs, intricate secret tunnels and captivating glass bell jars lined on a shelf with the most wonderful creatures underneath. I can honestly say it's like no other picture book we've read so far, in a really, really good way. The story is quite metaphorical, though I doubt younger kids might be able to see the deeper meaning of the content without adult guidance. The quest for perfection, the sad tendency of keeping strange things away from the public eye, the courage to follow your dreams regardless of what people say, the willingness to work with cooperation and team spirit, the belief in yourself and the determination to at least try… all are brought out pretty well in the story. The end, however not bad, is a bit less dreamlike than the rest of the book and may therefore feel a bit out of tone to some people. But on the other hand, it goes well with the real life issues that are being raised.Bestselling author Beth Ferry and the widely acclaimed Fan Brothers present this tender and affectionate tale that reminds us of the comforting power of friendship and the joy of helping others”. Since their debut picture book, 2016’s The Night Gardener, bagged a variety of honours and awards, the Fan brothers – who until now have consisted of illustrators Eric and Terry Fan – have moved from strength to strength, bringing their warmly surreal, fantastical style to books by other authors, including The Darkest Dark, a collaboration with author Kate Fillion and astronaut Chris Hadfield, and The Antlered Ship, with text by Dashka Slater.